When I picked up my nanny kids from school every afternoon the first thing they would do is take out their devices and start scrolling. It could be a lovely sunny day, but their heads were bent down oblivious to the beautiful world outside the car windows. It was so sad! They were missing so much.

I decided that since I only had them completely to myself during that fifteen-minute ride home I’d take advantage of it. If it was springtime I’d point out the flowering trees and tell them their names. They learned about the magnificent magnolia on Main Street, enjoyed the daffodils and tulips in people’s yards and the lovely soft pink wild cherry trees in the woods. In the fall and winter we had fun discovering how the trees and flowers had changed and new things to look for.

I made sure each child had time to tell me about their day in school. I learned about their friends, what happened at recess, and what problems they were having in the classroom. I found out important things that might have been forgotten by the time they got home and were distracted. The children and I got to know each other very well during that ride.

It’s easy to make the dinner table a “no phone zone”. But you are up close and personal in the car with the family. Take advantage of it. Turn the radio off, put down the devices and talk to each other. Sing a song together. Tell jokes. Play the “I Spy” game”. You’ll love it and the kids will build precious memories of their special time with you.

4/13/2025